Tragic Incident: Mother Fatally Attacked by Dog While Protecting Her 5-Year-Old Son

An Arizona mother tragically lost her life in a brutal dog attack while shielding her son outside her mother’s Southern California residence.

Emily Panuco, aged 26 and hailing from Parker, Arizona, had traveled with her 5-year-old son to her mother’s home in Big River to see a litter of puppies on February 27, as reported by the Colorado River Sheriff’s Department in a press release.

The newborn puppies, which her mother owned, were nestled in a cardboard box by the entrance. Three adult dogs, including the puppies’ mother, were also present on the property.

When Panuco’s son approached the puppies to pet them, the adult dogs suddenly charged at him, according to authorities.

Emily Panuco met a tragic end in a dog attack during her visit to her mother’s Big River, California home on February 27, 2026, as confirmed by the Colorado River Sheriff’s Department. (Image: Emily Ann/Facebook)

Panuco subsequently jumped in and attempted to shield her son from the attack, according to police. 

Tragically, Panuco sustained numerous bite wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene despite lifesaving efforts. 

Her 5-year-old son suffered two severe bites and was transported to a local hospital, before he was later released.

Emily Panuco was killed by three dogs after she jumped in to protect her young son during the attack, according to the Colorado River Sheriff’s Department. (Emily Ann/Facebook)

The three adult dogs were subsequently taken into custody by local animal control and later euthanized, police said.

Following the horrific incident, Panuco’s loved ones mourned the death of their loved one while remembering her life. 

“Emily was a devoted mother who worked at the CRITT library, where she touched the lives of many children and families,” a GoFundMe created to cover funeral costs and family living expenses read. “Her love for her own family was evident in everything she did, and her absence leaves a tremendous void.”

Emily Panuco leaves behind her husband and two young children, according to a family fundraiser. (Emily Ann/Facebook)

Panuco leaves behind her husband and two young children, according to the fundraiser. 

The Colorado River Sheriff’s Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. 

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